Laser blemish removal, often referred to as laser skin resurfacing, is a cosmetic procedure that uses focused light energy to improve the appearance of various skin imperfections. The process generally involves targeting damaged skin cells, stimulating the body’s natural healing process, and encouraging the growth of new, healthier skin.

Typical process:

Consultation and Preparation:

Assessment: A dermatologist or qualified practitioner will first assess your skin type, the specific blemishes you want to address, and your overall health. This determines the most suitable type of laser and treatment plan.

Pre-treatment instructions: You’ll receive specific instructions to prepare your skin, which may include:

Avoiding sun exposure and using broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Discontinuing certain skincare products (like retinoids, AHAs, BHAs) that can increase skin sensitivity.

Hydrating well by drinking plenty of water.

Arriving with clean, makeup-free skin on the day of the procedure.

For some treatments, a numbing cream might be applied an hour before the session.

2. The Procedure:

Anesthesia (if needed): Depending on the type of laser and the size of the treatment area, a topical numbing cream, local anesthetic, or even general anesthesia (for full-face treatments) may be used to minimize discomfort.

Eye protection: You’ll be given protective goggles to shield your eyes from the laser light.

Laser application: The practitioner will direct the laser beam at the targeted blemishes. The laser works by:

Lasers: These remove the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and heat the underlying dermis. This vaporizes damaged skin cells and stimulates collagen production, leading to new, smoother, and tighter skin as it heals. Common ablative lasers include CO2 and Erbium YAG

Duration: The treatment duration varies depending on the area being treated and the type of laser used, typically ranging from a few minutes to up to two hours.

3. Post-Treatment and Recovery:

Immediate aftercare: After the procedure, a non-stick dressing or ointment (like Vaseline or Aquaphor) may be applied to the treated areas to prevent scab formation and promote healing.

Healing time: Recovery time varies significantly based on the laser type:

Laser treatments: Can take 5 to 21 days for the treated areas to heal.

Post-treatment care: You’ll receive specific instructions for at-home care, which may include:

Cleaning the treated areas with saline or a diluted vinegar solution.

Applying antibiotic ointment or specific healing creams.

Avoiding harsh exfoliants, soaps, or perfumed products.

Protecting the treated skin from sun exposure with sunscreen and protective clothing.

Elevating the treated area (e.g., sleeping with extra pillows) to reduce swelling.

Makeup: Once the skin has healed, makeup can be used to camouflage any remaining redness. Green-based makeup is often recommended to neutralize red tones.

Results: The results are often both immediate and progressive, with collagen continuing to repair the skin for months after the surface has healed. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results, particularly for non-ablative treatments. While laser treatment can significantly reduce the appearance of blemishes and scars, it’s important to note that it may not completely erase them.

Types of Blemishes Treated by Laser:

Laser blemish removal can effectively address a wide range of skin concerns, including:

Acne and acne scars: Different lasers target acne bacteria, reduce oil production, calm inflammation, and smooth out various types of acne scars (boxcar, rolling, ice pick, and pigmented/red scars).

Age spots and sun spots: Lasers can target and break down excess pigment, leading to a more even skin tone.

Fine lines and wrinkles: By stimulating collagen production, lasers can improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Uneven skin texture: Lasers can smooth rough skin and refine the appearance of pores.

Vascular lesions: Pulsed dye lasers, for example, are effective in treating conditions like rosacea and spider veins by targeting blood vessels.

Warts: In some cases, certain lasers can be used to treat warts.